Planning: It’s All How You Look at It

In fact, as a “planner” nothing about the way I think or act would likely be deemed “casual”. I like to map out what might go right (and wrong) in any situation. This applies — whether I’m going out for a meal or an interview.

Some might label this as obsessive. Others might call this outright anxiety.

I call it smart. I call it planning to avoid trouble further down the road.

I may not stick to my first or even second rendition of the plan — however, starting with a plan is vital.

I’ve been around the block enough times in both life & work to realize that things can go wrong. (This has more to do with experienced data points, than outright pessimism.) Granted, if you are one of the lucky individuals to experience mostly smooth sailing and very few glitches — great. Bravo. Hooray. Wing it.

However, in my mind, a good plan beats luck every single time.

I feel the planning process helps us protect the goals & dreams that are most vital. It helps us see what we might lose. It helps us move forward.

I’m all about parables and a positive attitude. I’m all about “attracting” the right vibrations. But, I will stick with hard core planning every single time.

Call it what you will.

It just feels right.

Are you a planner? Do you like to plan the ups and the downs?

More on the topic from Allison Rim:

Dr. Marla Gottschalk is an Industrial/Organizational Psychologist. She is a charter member of the LinkedIn Influencer Program. Her thoughts on work life have appeared in various outlets including Talent Zoo, Forbes, Quartz and The Huffington Post.